Jaisalmer

In the heart of the Thar Desert lies Jaisalmer, a fairytale
desert town whose sand-yellow ramparts rise out of the arid desert.
The walled town was founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 and exists now
as both a popular tourist destination and a thriving hub of local
trade and tradesmen. Residents from outlying villages comfortably
outnumber foreigners in the bustling bazaar.

The splendid sandstone architecture that is a feature of
Jaisalmer, the 'Golden City', is unlike anything else in India. The
main 'chowk' (square) is dominated by the Palace of the Maharawal.
The palace's five-storey façade of balconies and windows displays
some of the finest masonry in Jaisalmer. A visit to Jaisalmer gives
you chance to discover the latticed stone façades of grand mansions
- the Nathmalji-ki-haveli, Patwon-ki-haveli and Satim
Singh-ki-haveli in particular show fine examples of the
stonecarver's skill.